In a significant development for Australian cricket, former national captain Meg Lanning has joined the coaching staff of the U19 women’s team, marking her first foray into coaching. Lanning, a seven-time World Cup winner, will serve as an assistant coach and mentor as the team begins preparations for the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2027.
Meg Lanning’s Transition from Player to Coach
After stepping away from international cricket in 2023, Lanning has continued to contribute to the sport at the domestic level with the Melbourne Stars and Victoria. Her appointment as an assistant coach for the U19 team represents a natural progression in her cricketing career, allowing her to impart her extensive knowledge and experience to the next generation of players.
The Lanning v Perry Series: A Platform for Emerging Talent
As part of the team’s development program, a 26-player squad will participate in the annual Lanning v Perry series, scheduled for late April at Brisbane’s National Cricket Campus. This series, named after Lanning and fellow cricket star Ellyse Perry, features three T20 matches and is designed to foster competition and growth among Australia’s most promising young female cricketers.
Holistic Development Focus
Beyond on-field performance, the program emphasizes holistic development, including sessions aimed at building team cohesion, mental resilience, and leadership skills. Cricket Australia’s Head of National Development, Sonya Thompson, highlighted the significance of Lanning’s involvement, stating, “It is an incredible opportunity for our best emerging cricketers to spend a week learning and absorbing knowledge from one of Australia’s most decorated cricketers.”
Looking Ahead to the 2027 World Cup
Australia’s U19 women’s team has shown promise in recent tournaments, reaching the semifinals in both the 2023 and 2025 editions of the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup. With Lanning’s guidance, the team aims to build on this foundation and make a strong bid for the title in 2027.
Conclusion
Meg Lanning’s transition into coaching marks a new chapter in her illustrious cricketing journey. Her involvement with the U19 women’s team not only strengthens Australia’s coaching ranks but also provides invaluable mentorship to young players aspiring to excel on the international stage.
FAQs
Q1: What role will Meg Lanning play in the U19 women’s team?
A1: Meg Lanning will serve as an assistant coach and mentor, working closely with the players to prepare for the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2027.
Q2: What is the Lanning v Perry series?
A2: The Lanning v Perry series is an annual event featuring Australia’s top young female cricketers competing in T20 matches, aimed at fostering talent and readiness for international competition.
Q3: When and where will the Lanning v Perry series take place?
A3: The series is scheduled for late April 2025 at Brisbane’s National Cricket Campus.
Q4: How has Australia’s U19 women’s team performed in recent World Cups?
A4: The team reached the semifinals in both the 2023 and 2025 editions of the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup.
Q5: What is the focus of the U19 women’s team’s development program?
A5: The program emphasizes holistic development, including technical skills, mental resilience, leadership, and team cohesion.
